By Ainsley Weems | MSU Communication Student Class of 2026
Gabriella Sutherland, a senior interior design and psychology student, presented her project, “Authoritarian Aesthetics in American Politics: Trump, Classicism, and the White House,” on Friday, March 20, with a focus on how architectural design shapes human emotion and perception.
Her research examines how elements such as scale, symmetry, materials and ornamentation influence the way people experience spaces. Sutherland said design is not only about function or appearance, but also about the emotional responses it can create. Large, formal structures may evoke feelings of awe or intimidation, while smaller, more open spaces can create a sense of comfort or accessibility.
“Architecture has historically developed alongside structures of power, which suggests that projects are permitted to emerge only to the extent that they serve broader political and social objectives,” Sutherland said, noting that built environments often reflect intentional choices that affect how individuals feel and interact within them.
The project grew from her interest in the relationship between design and psychology. By combining both disciplines, Sutherland explored how people interpret their surroundings and how designers can use those insights to shape more effective environments.
Sutherland presented at a symposium featuring undergraduate researchers from multiple institutions. She learned about the opportunity through the Shackouls Honors College and peers who had previously participated.
She described the event as a collaborative environment that encouraged the exchange of ideas across disciplines. Sutherland said she hopes audiences leave with a greater awareness of how design influences everyday experiences.
“I want people to stay curious about history's role in architecture and design, and how they speak to more than just aesthetics,” Sutherland said. “Stay open and stay curious – question your surroundings and explore how they make you feel.”